With the wing set at a positive angle of incidence on the fuselage, the Ensign adopted a distinct nose-down attitude in cruising flight, as shown clearly in this early photograph of the first aircraft.

After being re-engined with Wright Cyclone engines - identified by the shorter chord of the cowlings - the Ensigns were painted in a uniform stype before being transferred to the Middle East for service with BOAC. These pictures show the camouflaged upper surfaces and the civil registrations, which were retained together with the BOAC "Speedbird" emblem and aircraft name on the nose.Former Imperial Airways Armstrong Whitworth Ensign G-ADSV in BOAC wartime markings at Takoradi, West Africa

After its forced landing in French West Africa in 1942, G-AFZV, the final Ensign II, was taken to Dakar for repair by Vichy French personnel. There, the registration was changed to F-AFZV as a temporary expedient, but it later became F-BAHO after transfer to France.